THOUSANDS of residents flocked to Glenmore Park on Bank Holiday Monday to enjoy entertainment, stalls and demonstrations as part of the Shepshed Lions Club Annual Charity Carnival.

Now in its eighth year, the popular event had everything from furry friends to a strong man ripping apart Argos catalogues.

The event - which was originally resurrected in 2010 after the carnival disappeared from the town’s calendar in the 1990s - looks to celebrate Shepshed, the town’s culture and the community.

It also aims to raise funds for individuals, smaller charities and community groups in the area and over the years it has raised more than £28,000.

It is believed this year’s event attracted 3,000 people to the park.

Attendees were treated to a performance by Chainnigh Irish Dance School and adults and youngsters alike were entertained by street entertainer Mad Dominic.

Dangerous Steve had crowds ‘oohing’ and ‘aahing’ as he juggled chainsaws, drove a motorbike blindfolded and cracked a flaming whip.

Mighty Smith Strong Man was also a hit with residents as he bent nails with his teeth and lifted a large atlas ball.

Those watching were also invited to get involved and see if they could take on the challenges - but none were a match for the muscle man.

The Ferret Roadshow also took to the arena and provided alternative, and educational entertainment, highlighting the abilities of the animals and the Harris’s hawk.

More than 50 stalls were present at the event and an abundance of attractions were on offer.

On the day Bob Lilley, president of Shepshed Lions Club, told the Echo: “We’re absolutely delighted with how this year’s event has gone, there has been a fantastic turnout again, and the weather always helps.

“The people of Shepshed and the surrounding area support us in everything we do.

“I think it has been the biggest to date, I’d like to thank our sponsors that support us, the people that support us, the stall holders that help make the event happen and all the volunteers.

“We rely on volunteers to give up their time as we don’t have sufficient members of the club to run an event this big.

“The event is a way people can enjoy themselves without spending vast amounts of money.”

Kenny Henry added: “It’s a community event, no family pays more than £3, it’s the main focus of the day and you can really see it here.”

More information on the carnival and the club’s charity work can be found at: www.shepshedcarnival.org